NASW-Illinois Chapter Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging Committee (NASW-IL DEIAB)
President Donald J. Trump had the opportunity this inauguration week to dispel fears around his administration’s views on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Instead, he doubled down by rolling out several blatantly racist, xenophobic, transphobic, and frankly dangerous anti-DEI executive orders, including but not limited to ending DEI-driven federal government hiring, bringing an end to birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented parents, and designating only two sexes—male and female—to be recognized by the federal government.
The president also rescinded several executive actions implemented by President Biden, such as rolling back the Equitable Organization and Mobilization of COVID-19 Response, Preventing and Combating Discrimination based on Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation, Protecting Public Health and the Environment, and Restoring Science To Tackle the Climate Crisis, and 75 others. A full list can be obtained here.
The NASW-Illinois Chapter’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessiblity, and Belonging Committee (NASW-IL DEIAB) stands united in our mission to, “foster respectful, knowledgeable, inclusive, equitable, accountable, trauma-sensitive, culturally humble, and socially just environments with increased capacity within the social work profession and broader society.” It goes without saying that as a committee devoted to the expansion of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, we are deeply concerned about and offended by the actions taken by President Trump. These actions will gravely endanger the individuals, families, and communities we serve, and directly affect our work. His intentions fly in the face of the critical efforts social workers nationwide have pursued in the name of justice, equity, and access for all.
In particular, the Trump administration’s aggressive focus on the deportation of migrants, asylum seekers, dreamers, and many other groups is unconscionable. To cast out millions of people who are here legally and separate them from their families and communities is illegal, detestable, and wrong. This decision will cause irreparable trauma, imminent violence, and systemic socioeconomic impacts. It also significantly challenges the strength and protection of America’s constitution. As preparations are underway to deport millions of our neighbors and friends, we encourage you to learn about the rights we are guaranteed under the US Constitution and a resource you can share with others about how to respond to questions or challenges around immigration: ACLU: Know Your Rights – Immigrants’ Rights.
We have been here before. We will be here again. But, we won’t be alone. Together, we will continue to combat these harmful decisions. It is our duty as social workers to fight against these injustices. We hope you’ll join us in our quest by staying connected to the activities of the NASW-IL DEIAB Committee and NASW-IL’s advocacy efforts.
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The NASW-Illinois Chapter Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging Committee (NASW-IL DEIAB) works to promote the NASW programs and efforts that encourage awareness, respect, and appreciation of diversity in the social work profession and our society. Its particular focus includes race and ethnic diversity, social justice, women advancement, and sexual orientation (LGBTTQQIAAP) issues.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, with over 120,000 members. The NASW-Illinois Chapter is one of the association's largest chapters representing over 20.000 licensed Illinois social workers and school social workers, with over 5,000 active members. NASW strives to advance social work careers, grow social work businesses, and protect the profession.